Last Updated on 10/25/2018 by Mark Beckenbach
The great photographer and artist Andy Warhol had a major affinity for Polaroid film and here’s some extra proof.
Photographer Andy Warhol and his love of Polaroid film is no real secret if you pay attention to history. This recent find on eBay is a major treasure for any fan of Polaroid, Instant film, or even Warhol himself. Also known as the creator of Pop Art, Andy is also closely known for his many Polaroid photos shot over the years–some were taken in his studio while others were shot at parties almost Photo Booth style. Said “treasure” is none other than a pack of Polaroid film signed by Andy himself. Technically, one could argue that this belongs in a museum. But on the other hand, it would make much more sense in the collection of a photographer or a designer.
In the video above, you’ll see Andy working in the studio with Farrah Fawcett. It was said that he did 25 commissioned portraits a year, and in this particular session he got the shot after 40 images. However, apparently he needed around 300 photos to get the shot he wanted at times. The images also harken back to the days of peel apart film–now gone, unfortunately. In today’s world, 300 photos isn’t a lot at all, but modern masters still strive to get the photo they want in a single frame.
According to the eBay description:
signed Andy Warhol
attached payment receipt AMERICAN EXPRESS dated 19/08/1980
paid by AMEX credit card made out to ANDY WARHOL with card expiry 01/84 titular since 1978
date seller German tobacconist of WESTERSTEDE
Foundation stamps
private collection
So not only are you getting the pack of Polaroid film signed by Andy Warhol, but you’re also getting the proof that it was his via the receipt. He paid for it via a credit card, which helps to authenticate that it’s real. However, it’s still not 100% proof that it belonged to Andy and that it was he himself who signed it. Andy did indeed sometimes shoot Type 88 film and embraced the look and feel of the instant nature.
On eBay, there is the option to buy it now for just under $7,000. Of course, you need to be a serious collector and I’d never shoot with the film. It belongs stored in a fridge. The sad part is that one also needs to be very careful with the box. One day, the chemicals inside the film are bound to accidentally burst and spill all over the insides unless you’re very careful.